Britain braces for election gridlock as polls predict dead heat

Thursday, May 07, 2015 - 01:05

Britons are voting in the tightest election for decades, one that could lead to government gridlock and push the world's fifth-largest economy closer to leaving the European Union. Mana Rabiee reports.

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In London as across the UK, up to 48 million voters are casting ballots in the tightest election seen in decades.
Analysts predict ... it could bring government gridlock; push the world's fifth-largest economy closer to leaving the European Union; and stoke a second attempt by Scotland to break away.
But some voters aren't worried.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) ACCOUNTANT, JAMES LOVEJOY, SAYING:
"I think there's been a lot of scaremongering. I don't actually think there is much to worry about. An EU referendum is something that I would be worried about, but I don't mind it taking place."
Final opinion polls show the two major parties -- Conservative and Labour - are at a near dead heat.
If neither party wins an overall majority, talks would begin Friday with smaller parties … in a race to strike deals.
THAT could lead to a formal coalition OR produce a fragile minority government.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) VOTER, NATALIE WOJCIKIEWICZ, SAYING:
"I think it would be easier if it was one majority party in power, but hopefully a coalition will still work."
IF a durable government can't be formed, Britain COULD face political instability and a not so 'united' Kingdom.

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